Apple Vision Pro 2 Expected by 2026 with M5 Chip, But Don’t Expect a New Design

Apple's first mixed-reality headset, the Vision Pro, debuted with much fanfare at WWDC last year, blending AR and VR in an advanced design. Now, rumors surrounding its successor are heating up. According to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, the next-gen Apple Vision Pro may arrive as soon as the fall of 2025 or early 2026, with updates focused on performance improvements rather than design overhauls.

Here's a closer look at what's expected from Apple's Vision Pro 2 and the future of the Vision lineup.

Vision Pro 2: What's Likely to Change

In line with the initial Vision Pro's design, the Vision Pro 2 is expected to retain a similar appearance while introducing a major internal upgrade: the M5 chip. This next-gen processor would succeed the M2 chip currently powering the Vision Pro, aiming to deliver faster processing and enhanced functionality. Gurman notes that Apple is working on multiple prototypes, yet at least one model is expected to maintain the familiar sleek structure with incremental internal improvements.

This shift towards internal upgrades rather than design changes suggests that Apple is focusing on refining user experience and functionality in the Vision Pro 2. Additionally, rumors indicate that Apple's visionOS 2.2 will offer expanded display options, allowing users to utilize Wide and Ultra-Wide displays in virtual environments. This could significantly enhance productivity applications, an appealing prospect for professionals.

Affordable Vision-Line Model: Is It Still Happening?

While the Vision Pro 2 appears to be on track, reports from industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggest that Apple may have delayed its plans for a more affordable Vision headset, initially anticipated to arrive by 2027. This model was expected to provide a less feature-rich alternative to the Vision Pro at a lower price point, targeting a broader audience. However, it seems that Apple is exploring other ways to create accessibility in the mixed-reality market.

Gurman speculates that Apple might be working on a Vision device that acts as an accessory to the iPhone, rather than a standalone headset. This accessory-like device would use an iPhone for processing power, relying on the phone's data transfer capabilities to reduce production costs. By leaning on the iPhone, Apple could offer a more budget-friendly option for consumers, potentially making the mixed-reality experience more widely accessible.

The Roadmap Ahead

With the Vision Pro 2 potentially arriving in late 2025 or early 2026, Apple seems to be refining its approach to the mixed-reality space by improving performance rather than reworking the headset's core design. Additionally, the prospect of an iPhone-dependent Vision device could broaden Apple's reach in the AR/VR market by lowering entry costs for consumers interested in mixed reality.

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